modern kitchen with white cabinets and butcher block countertops

Update Your Rental Kitchen with 7 Easy Tips

If you’re looking to spruce up your rental kitchen without breaking the bank or causing any permanent changes, we’ve got you covered!

Having a landlord often means you can’t make permanent changes, but there are still ways to make your house a home that fits your style.

With these simple tips, you can give your rental kitchen a much-needed update without breaking any rules or the bank.

man adding handles to kicthen cabinet

Improve Your Rental Kitchen without Breaking Rules

There are ways you can make an outdated kitchen, filled with old cabinets and insufficient counter space, more welcoming.

Just a bit of creativity and a small budget can make your kitchen come alive with style with these tips.

Revive your cabinets

I quickly learned while renting for several years, that a good cleaning was the first step in changing the look of the kitchen.

Grease and grime from cooking splatters can make quite a mess on cabinet doors.

A solution made with equal parts of warm water and white vinegar will gently clean and disinfect the surfaces.

Then, if the landlord allows, paint your kitchen cabinets for a whole new look.

You may also consider resurfacing them instead of painting them for a more durable solution.

The best thing is — you can enjoy the benefits of resurfacing your cabinets without spending a fortune.

Just make sure to properly prep the surfaces before applying a fresh coat of paint or resurfacing solution.

Give your cabinets personality

Personalizing your cabinets in a rental home is a wonderful way to infuse some character and make the space truly feel like your own.

While you may not be able to make permanent changes to the cabinets, there are plenty of temporary options that can still add a touch of personality.

Consider using removable wallpaper or contact paper to add a pop of color or a trendy pattern to the cabinet doors.

Another option is to swap out the hardware with stylish handles or knobs that reflect your personal taste.

Adding something as small as a new cabinet pull or drawer handle will transform even the plainest kitchen.

One trip to the hardware store will provide you with a variety of options to choose from. There are different shapes, sizes, and finishes to fit every style and need.

These simple yet effective tricks will not only bring charm to your kitchen but also make you feel more connected to your rental space.

Get permission from your landlord as needed, and make sure to save the existing hardware to put back on when you move out.

Mask scuffed-up floors

To mask scuffed-up floors, there are a few effective solutions you can consider.

One option is to use floor polish or wax specifically designed to cover up those unsightly marks.

These products not only provide a protective layer but also hide minor imperfections, giving your floors a refreshed look.

Another approach is to strategically place area rugs or furniture over the scuffed areas, diverting attention away from the flaws.

It’s the easiest way to cover scuffed-up hardwood or linoleum. Measure the space you need to cover and do some shopping.

Additionally, if the scuffs are relatively shallow, you may attempt to gently buff them out using a floor buffer or fine-grit sandpaper, followed by applying a touch-up stain or finish to seamlessly blend in the repaired spots.

Remember, regular maintenance and proper care are crucial to preventing further scuffs and maintaining the overall appearance of your floors.

Cover the entire floor or just a small area of it. Use the rug to add a pop of color or create a new feel.

Hide your appliances

If the appliances in your rental are not exactly your favorite color or look more than gently used, get inventive.

One of the best ways to disguise your ugly appliances is by utilizing creative cover-ups.

For example, you can use adhesive contact paper to transform the appearance of your refrigerator or dishwasher.

Choose a design or pattern that complements the aesthetic of your kitchen, whether it’s a sleek and modern look or a cozy and rustic feel.

Another option is to invest in appliance covers specifically designed to blend seamlessly into your kitchen decor.

These covers not only conceal the unattractive elements of your appliances but also add an extra layer of style to your space.

Use your own images to create an extraordinary photo collage of magnets that can become a focal point for the kitchen.

Plus, look for appliance paint or magnetic panels made to fit over some models as another option.

By incorporating these clever disguises, you can effortlessly create a harmonious and visually pleasing kitchen environment.

Add some color

If you want to add some color to your rental kitchen, there are plenty of non-permanent options to consider.

Even if you can’t paint the walls or cabinets, it doesn’t mean you can’t still brighten your kitchen with elements of color.

One simple way to incorporate color is by using removable wallpaper on accent walls or on the inside of cabinets.

You can choose vibrant patterns or solid colors that complement your overall kitchen design.

Another option is to bring in colorful accessories like dish towels, countertop appliances, or even a bright rug to inject some personality into the space.

Don’t forget about plants! Adding small potted plants or fresh flowers can instantly liven up your rental kitchen with a touch of nature and color.

Colorful accessories, like dishtowels, curtains, storage containers, and pictures, establish a vibrant and lively environment for cooking.

With these simple and temporary updates, you can transform your rental kitchen into a vibrant and inviting space.

Create extra space

If you’re looking to create extra space in your rental kitchen, there are several clever solutions you can explore.

One option could be to utilize vertical storage by installing floating shelves or hanging hooks on the walls.

A small, cramped kitchen with little storage may require adding stackable shelves to your cabinets or even wall-mounted shelves to the walls.

This way, you can keep your countertops clear while still having easy access to your cooking utensils and spices.

Additionally, consider using portable kitchen islands or rolling carts that can be easily moved around and provide extra counter space when needed.

If extra counter space is the issue, a side table or metal cart can create extra storage or counter space. A small island will provide even more counter and storage.

Another idea is to make use of the inside of your cabinet doors by installing spice racks or hooks for hanging small items like measuring cups or pot holders.

With some creativity and resourcefulness, you’ll be able to maximize the space in your rental kitchen and make it more functional for your needs.

Research options based on your kitchen size to see what may work best to fit your needs.

Make it personal

Empty wall space is an excellent blank space for truly adding your own touch to the kitchen. Add framed photos to make the space feel more like your own.

Pick a theme and use the same type of frame for all the artwork to help the kitchen look more pulled together.

Renting doesn’t mean that you have to live with the way the house looks at move-in.

There are subtle changes and improvements that can make big differences in the look and feel of your living space.

Be bold and create a space you love and that helps make your house a home.

How to Improve Your Rental Kitchen without Breaking Rules
How to Improve Your Rental Kitchen without Breaking Rules